Justice Minister Siromi Turaga has raised issues over the appointment of Vakaloloma Mocevakaca Nakarawa as a nurse practitioner and acting medical officer in the Fiji Corrections Service (FCS). Turaga noted that he was inadequately informed about Nakarawa’s appointment and salary, which he argues does not align with the 2013 Constitution that governs the roles and responsibilities within FCS.
The Constitution provides the FCS Commissioner with considerable power regarding appointments and staff discipline while mandating those employment terms and conditions should be endorsed by the Minister. Turaga expressed regret at only learning about Nakarawa’s involvement after the decision had already been made.
Dr. Alisi Vudiniabola, president of the Fiji Nursing Association, underscored the discrepancies between the roles of a nurse practitioner and a medical officer, asserting that the qualifications for these two positions are not interchangeable and should not overlap in formal appointments.
Nakarawa, who was appointed as an NP in January, saw her appointment coincide with the dismissal of a senior medical officer, leading to allegations of nepotism given her connection to the FCS Commissioner. This situation has intensified scrutiny around the integrity of the recruitment process, prompting calls from various groups, including the Fiji Medical Association, for transparent investigations to ensure that appointments are merit-based rather than influenced by personal ties.
This development signals a critical moment for the FCS, highlighting the urgent need for robust regulations governing employment practices within public sectors. As discussions unfold, there lies potential for positive reform aimed at enhancing transparency and equity, ultimately bolstering trust in Fiji’s correctional system. The outcome of these discussions could pave the way for governance improvements that enhance the operational integrity of public institutions.
Leave a comment